Abstract [en]

This report describes the development of a sample loader for my diploma work at Q-linea AB in Uppsala. The sample loader will replace the process of loading fluid samples into Q-linea’s instrument for biomolecule analysis. The earlier process was done by hand and was a time consuming and inefficient task.

The work was initiated with a design phase where an overview of the system was created. The sample loader will be receiving text commands from a PC that coordinates all the subsystems like pumps and lasers on the analysis instrument. The commands will be translated by a microcontroller into the correct movement of the samples needed to load them.

Most of the work was put down into developing the software responsible for handling communications and actuation of a couple of stepper motors. Lastly a circuit board was designed and manufactured, ready to be mounted into the existing instrument.

The result was a working prototype which now is used in the daily work at Q-linea. It is subject for further development and in the future it will be shipped as a part of the finished biomolecular analysis instrument from Q-linea.